Another caution is also important. Always _speak kindly and affectionately_ to friends upon this subject; and if you find all your efforts vain, though you cease to urge neglected duty, still continue to express the same kindness and interest for them. Do not give them occasion to feel that, because they will not take your advice, you have cast them off as reprobates, and no longer desire their society. We may still continue to love the amiable natural traits of our friends, even though we find that they refuse to have them crowned and beautified by religion. Let all your efforts for the good of others be accompanied by earnest and constant prayer. Lastly, do not be discouraged because you find that you are _very deficient in any of the particulars specified_. Remember, that Christian life is a _warfare_, and that it is only at the _end_ that we are to come off conquerors and more than conquerors. Remember, that He whom you are striving to serve and please, is not a hard master. Though you have been inexcusable in fostering habits of neglect, and all the difficulties you find are of your own making, yet he can be “touched with the feeling of your infirmities.” When he sees that you really are afflicted because you are so constantly tempted to forget him, he pities you “as a father pitieth his children;” and so long as you see the means he has appointed to keep you from sin, and wait upon him for strength and guidance, he will never leave nor forsake you. When you feel your own strength and resolution failing, go to him who hath said, “my grace is sufficient for thee, and my strength shall be made perfect in weakness.” Call upon him, “and he will be very gracious unto the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee. And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, this is the way, walk ye therein, when ye turn to the right and when ye turn to the left.” Remember also, that the conflict is short; the race will speedily be accomplished—soon your deficiencies and guilt shall pain you no more—soon you shall “see him as he is,” and “awake in his likeness and be satisfied therewith.” LETTER TO A YOUNG LADY AT THE OUTSET OF A RELIGIOUS LIFE.